US Patent 7021549 Laser markable variable data heat transfer label and marking system

A laser markable heat transfer label for application to an item includes a light transmissive carrier, a heat transferable substrate disposed on the carrier and an adhesive disposed on the substrate. The substrate is formulated, at least in part, with a laser light alterable material. A variable graphic component is marked on the label by application of a laser light through the light transmissive carrier, into the substrate to alter the laser light alterable material. The variable graphic component is marked prior to application of the heat transfer label to the item. A method of making and a method of using the laser markable labels are also disclosed.